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Lesley Greene (History 1968-71) was recently awarded a Master of Arts Honoris causa from the University of the West of England, Bristol. This was awarded in recognition of her outstanding contribution, locally and nationally, to public art development and her advocacy of art and design in public settings, which has enriched the lives of so many citizens.
In his oration Andrew Kelly, Director of the Bristol City 2008 bid, said: 'Developing any arts project needs vision, commitment, marketing and fundraising skills, and persistence. Lesley Greene has these skills. Lesley's work has transformed the landscape of Bristol, providing inspiration to those who she works with and those that benefit from the work that she does.
Castle Park created a new urban park in the centre of the city and is now the site of many a lunch, festival, walk and cycle ride. Recently Lesley managed the public arts programme for the new Bristol Royal Hospital for sick children, the project that she is most proud of and the one that those who know her regard as her greatest triumph - so far, at least.
Not content with simply developing projects, Lesley has been keen to influence policy-making. Her work for the London Arts Board, the Arts Council of England, the Royal Society for the Arts is known for its clear thinking and passion.
Officers in South West Arts recall with fondness the support she provided as a board member. And it is her work in the West Country that we celebrate today. Lesley is Chair of the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trust, one of the largest programmes of public art in the country.
Lesley Greene is an outstanding example of an individual able to create something out of nothing. By building and using partnerships - especially between education and the public sector - and being an excellent advocate for the arts and design, her work has made a significant impact on national life as well as having an immediate effect on the lives of those that live in the west country and Bristol. Her lifelong commitment to art is an inspiration to us all.'
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